Building Resilient Digital Infrastructure for Growth - BRIDGE

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The BRIDGE project directly supports Nigeria’s broadband strategy and digital transformation agenda by expanding access to high-quality, climate-resilient broadband infrastructure in underserved areas. With a total budget of US$1.6 billion—including US$500 million in IDA financing and US$1.1 billion in expected private capital—it will establish a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to deploy 90,000 km of open-access fiber. Public funds will support feasibility studies, transaction advisory, SPV setup, and equity contributions. The network will be energy-efficient, climate-adaptive, and powered by renewable energy where needed.BRIDGE is designed to address structural market failures that have left much of Nigeria without reliable broadband access. It targets areas where private sector investment has not been viable, using catalytic public financing to unlock new infrastructure development and crowd in commercial capital. By improving the reach and resilience of broadband networks, the project lays the foundation for inclusive economic growth, supports digital public service delivery, and enhances connectivity for critical sectors such as education, health, and local governance.The project includes two components. Component 1: Resilient Digital Infrastructure will finance the rollout of backbone and middle-mile fiber networks, crowding in private investment through the SPV. It will fund preparatory studies, transaction advisory, and equity issuance, enabling a phased, demand-responsive deployment of 90,000 km of open-access, climate-resilient fiber. The SPV will offer wholesale services to ISPs under transparent, non-discriminatory terms, with a strong emphasis on commercial viability, environmental standards, and energy efficiency. The fiber network will replace microwave backhaul, reducing emissions and improving reliability, and will be co-located with renewable energy investments where grid access is limited.Component 2: Project Management and Implementation Support will finance a dedicated Project Implementation Unit (PIU) within the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy (FMCIDE). The PIU will oversee procurement, safeguards, financial management, and monitoring and evaluation activities. The component will also support citizen engagement, including grievance redress, and ensure quality assurance and audit functions are maintained throughout implementation.